Is it safe to drink coffee in the Dominican Republic?

The majority of the coffee is organically grown?no harmful chemicals?and coffee trees are grown between shade trees and other crops, including cacao, maintaining rich soils and creating a great environment for animal life.



Yes, drinking coffee in the Dominican Republic is not only safe but is one of the most culturally significant and enjoyable experiences for any visitor. The country is a world-class producer of high-altitude Arabica beans, particularly from regions like Jarabacoa and Barahona. Most coffee served in hotels, cafes, and local "comedores" is prepared with boiled water, which eliminates the primary risk of waterborne bacteria that travelers often worry about. The local style, often called "Café Santo Domingo" after the famous brand, is typically served strong, dark, and sweet in small cups. For travelers in 2026, it is important to distinguish between the coffee itself and the water used for ice or unboiled beverages; while the coffee is safe, it is still recommended to use bottled or filtered water for drinking straight. However, because coffee is brewed at temperatures near boiling (around 90°C to 95°C), the process naturally sterilizes the drink. Whether you are enjoying a "cortadito" at a street-side stand or a gourmet pour-over in a Santo Domingo cafe, you can partake in the island's vibrant coffee culture with total peace of mind and great satisfaction.

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While Dominican food is not to be missed, coffee is the most central part of everyday life in the Dominican Republic. In fact, it is the Dominican national non-alcoholic drink. Everybody drinks it. To refuse an offer of a cafecito is seen as ungracious, and sometimes downright unpatriotic!

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See a healthcare provider if your symptoms are severe or last for more than a few days. You can prevent it by avoiding unsafe water and not eating unsafe foods.

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Brushing teeth with tap water in the Dominican Republic is not recommended unless the water quality is guaranteed to be filtered or treated. In most cases, using boiled, filtered, or bottled water is a safer option for traveling.

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Be cautious when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, be wary of rides or other invitations, avoid walking alone at night and don't leave drinks unattended. If you're a victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the British Embassy.

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Health risks in Punta Cana are generally low, but being prepared is always a good idea. The most common health concerns for tourists include sunstroke and food-related issues. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and be cautious of what and where you eat to prevent these.

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Courses or boosters usually advised: Hepatitis A; Tetanus. Other vaccines to consider: Diphtheria; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Typhoid. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera.

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While it is a very safe location, as it is in other countries and cities, there are places where you shouldn't go by yourself. It is generally safe to leave the resort in Punta Cana, it is recommended that you don't do so by yourself and instead book safe Punta Cana Transportation.

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Not eat raw meat and fish (ceviche). Although ceviche is a favorite gourmet dish of many tourists and residents of Punta Cana, it is important to make sure the exquisite dish is prepared of fresh raw meat or fish duly cured in citrus (lemon or lime) juice and spiced with chili peppers, salt, onion and other seasonings.

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Water: As in most developing countries, the tap water is not potable. Please refrain from using it to drink or brush your teeth. We will provide bottled water. Do not flush toilet paper down the toilet, remember to place toilet paper in trash.

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Nonetheless, some countries that were historically referred to as “Third World” include Afghanistan, Angola, Argentina, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Chad, China, Congo, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jamaica, ...

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